How to Prevent Dryer Fires

Every year, firefighters across the country respond to more than 15,000 home fires caused by clothes dryers, according to the National Fire Protection Association. About 27 percent of these fires is caused by an accumulation of lint, which means that not cleaning out your dryer vent can set you up for a dangerous situation that’s far more serious than the drop in performance caused by constricting a dryer’s ductwork. Some dryers have indicators designed to alert you when lint has built up and blocked the vent. Dryer fires are responsible for 5-7 seven deaths, hundreds civilian injuries, and millions in property damage annually. Given these numbers, here are three simple best practices to ensure safety in the laundry room.

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1. Clean your lint filters

2. Replace foil and plastic transitions or hire a professional to do it

3. Have a professional clean the dryer vent annually